Steering wheel shakes

Hi and thanks for using 2carpros.com.

This can be a few things. First, make sure the tires are properly balanced. Next, confirm that there are no shifted belts or uneven tread wear on the front tires. Take a look through this link. It shows different forms of tire wear and explains the causes.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-car-tires-work

Now since you it stops when you turn, it could be a steering component or even a wheel bearing. When you turn right, the vehicle's weight shifts left, so weight is partially removed from the right side. Safely lift the front wheels, one at a time. Placing your hands both at 3 and 9 o'clock and then 6 and 12 o'clock, shake the wheel with some force to determine if there is play (does it feel loose). Do that and let me know what you find.

Take care,
Joe

Welcome back, Eddie:

That sounds like a bad tie rod. There are two on each side, an inner and outer. When you are moving the tire and feel play, have a helper check where the tie rod joins to the steering knuckle (outer tie rod) or you will see or feel the inner tie rod if there is play.

I attached two pictures. The first is of the outer tie rod. The arrow is pointing to the component. The second picture is of the steering rack and pinion. At both ends are the outer tie rods and if you follow them inward, you will see a rubber accordion type boot. Inside the boot is where the inner tie rods are located. Make sure there is no play in either the inner or outer.

Here is a link that shows how to replace an outer tie rod:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/tie-rod-end-replacement

Chances are that is where the play is coming from, but the inner can go bad, too.

If you have to replace the one or more of the tie rods, you have to make sure that the new ones are screwed in the exact same distance as the original ones. The overall length between the rack and pinion and steering knuckle must stay the same. If you don't, the vehicle will need aligned. The tie rods are how toe-in and out is adjusted when aligning the front end. Also, make sure everything is tight.

Let me know if this helps or if you have other questions. Also, keep in mind, if the tie rod breaks, you lose steering.

Take care,
Joe

Let me know if you need anything. If I don't hear from you, have a great Christmas.

Joe